Hyundai Motor Group Appoints Michael Kleine to Lead Washington, D.C. Office

August 3, 2026 by Hyundai
• Hyundai Motor Group appoints senior diplomat and 2024 Presidential Rank Award recipient Michael Kleine as Head of its Washington, D.C. Office
• Kleine will advance U.S. government engagement and oversee all public policy, strategic advisory and government affairs activities

Hyundai Motor Group (the Group) today announced the appointment of Michael Kleine as Head of Hyundai Motor Group Washington, D.C. Office.

In this role, effective immediately, Kleine will lead the Group’s engagement with U.S. federal government stakeholders and oversee all public policy, strategic advisory and government affairs activities across the U.S.

The appointment underscores the Group’s commitment to strengthening its partnerships with the U.S. government as the Group expands its investment in American manufacturing, technology innovation, and the broader automotive ecosystem.
‘Michael’s appointment reflects our deep commitment to the U.S. and our vision to strengthen ties between Hyundai Motor Group and U.S. institutions and stakeholders. His distinguished career and proven track record in navigating complex trade and policy matters make him an invaluable addition to our team as we continue to expand our footprint in America.’ – Sung Kim, President and Head of Strategic Planning Division at Hyundai Motor Group

Who is Michael Kleine?
Kleine brings more than 25 years of distinguished diplomatic experience to the Group. Throughout his career with the U.S. Department of State, he held senior leadership positions across five key markets in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond:

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• Indonesia — Served as Chargé d’Affaires, ad interim at the U.S. Embassy in Jakarta.
• South Korea — Held the position of Minister Counselor for Economic Affairs at the U.S. Embassy in Seoul, where he supported the conclusion and ratification of the U.S.–Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS).• Australia, Laos and Vietnam — Managed economic and diplomatic initiatives.
Additionally, Kleine served as Senior Advisor for Korea and Japan Trade Policy at the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR), where he shaped critical trade policy decisions affecting the region.

In recognition of his exceptional public service, Kleine received the prestigious Presidential Rank Award for Meritorious Service in 2024. This honor reflects his distinguished contributions to U.S. foreign service and diplomatic excellence.

Prior to his diplomatic career, Mr. Kleine practiced law in Washington, D.C. His educational credentials include:

• Juris Doctor from Duke University School of Law
• Master of Science in National Security Strategy from the National War College
His combined expertise in law, trade policy, and international relations positions him uniquely to advance the Group’s strategic interests and strengthen stakeholder relationships in Washington.